February 07, Colombo (LNW): In a Cabinet media conference held at the Government Information Department, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister of Transport, Highways, and Mass Media, Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana, revealed that Rs.10 billion has been allocated for this year’s elections, specifically earmarked for the Presidential and Parliamentary Elections scheduled for 2024.
Minister Gunawardhana clarified that this budget allocation is exclusively designated for the mentioned elections and emphasized that the funds will need to cover all related expenses. He specified that amendments proposed by the Commission of Inquiry, through a special gazette, will not be effective for the upcoming elections in 2024 and the subsequent elections in 2025.
During the conference, the Cabinet spokesman highlighted the government’s financial constraints and underscored that the budget estimates for 2024 have accommodated the Rs.10 billion allocation for election-related activities. The Cabinet of Ministers acknowledged that funds for the Provincial Council Election and Local Government Election, slated for 2025, will need to be provided within the limited financial space of the government.
Minister Gunawardhana informed that any necessary amendments to election laws, based on the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry established under the Commission Act (Authority 393), will be considered. However, he emphasized that such amendments should be introduced with parliamentary approval.
The Cabinet of Ministers, after considering the facts presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, has decided to give its consent to take the necessary steps in accordance with the recommendations and requirements for the upcoming elections.
